Christopher Robin is a tale of what happens when you grow up, when you leave your childhood behind and live your dull adult life. For those who aren’t familiar with the characters, Christopher Robin is a boy who had a group of stuffed animal friends, they all play together in the 100-acre wood. The characters were created almost 100 years ago and their stories have been told many times over.

 

This is a film for those of us who grew up with the stories, with Winnie the Pooh and friends, who, like Christopher Robin, might have forgotten the wonders of childhood. It’s also a film for a new generation of Pooh fans, that silly old bear still has a sense of wonder which will satisfy younger audiences. What is especially wonderful is Jim Cummings returns to be the voice of Pooh which is very sweet to hear.

 

Christopher Robin has grown up and forgotten about his adventures in the 100-acre wood, he has a daughter, a wife and more importantly a very stressful job. Post World War 2, there isn’t a lot of time for wholesome fun and play, instead Christopher finds himself trying to save the luggage company from bust and having to work a weekend, missing out on time with his family in the cottage. So of course, an untimely arrival from Pooh puts a spanner in the works and the fun starts.

 

This isn’t just a kids film, in fact adults will walk away with some food for thought on that work/life balance. There are some moments, while never lengthy, may bore the youngest of viewers, but it’s not long before Pooh shows back up on screen with some of his unique wisdom. Running at 1 hour 44m might also tire out much younger kids.

 

Christopher Robin is wholesome fun, there are quite a few laughs in it. That comedic relief is well deserved as older audiences may shed a few tears at the pain of saying goodbye to your childhood. Ewan McGregor plays that serious adult slowly succumbing to childlike wonder in such a beautiful way.

 

Christopher Robin is something for your whole family, make it a special outing, followed up by a spoonful of honey to add to the abundance of sweetness from Pooh.